SuperNode has responded to the public consultation on the Irish government’s Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill.
The Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill proposes new ambitious renewables and climate targets for Ireland that are compatible with a net zero economy before 2050. The government should also be applauded for its proposal to establish 15-year rolling carbon budgets, combined with a strengthened mandate of the Climate Advisory Council to ensure enforcement.
The point-to-point approach to grid infrastructure based on current HVDC technology must be changed. It will not be capable of delivering Ireland or Europe’s climate targets.
A total redesign and reinforcement of the grid should be an urgent priority. There should be a new focus given to grid technology research, innovation and demonstration that would allow Ireland to reap the commercial benefits of exporting renewable energy from its vast renewable energy resource. This is especially true in the offshore space where no grid currently exists and where Ireland can capitalize on huge wind resources.
Today, there are very few avenues for the funding of innovative grid technologies such as superconductors. Funding vehicles should be made available to new entrants/SMEs from the private sector. The few funding programs that do exist today tend to include the incumbent TSO as a condition. This manner of closed loop discussion leads to sub-optimal closed loop innovation.
The global energy transition offers vast commercial benefits to those nations who can develop new innovative grid technologies.
SuperNode’s response can be viewed here: Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill Questionnare Response
Wind Energy Ireland, of which SuperNode are a member, can be viewed here: Wind Energy Ireland Response to Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Bill
SuperNode’s letter of support for Wind Energy Ireland can be viewed here: SuperNode Call for Evidence Climate Action Bill